The Wild made the announcement Thursday and said he is undergoing treatment
for the disease.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Josh and his family following the news that
he has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis," said Wild general manager
Chuck Fletcher in a statement Thursday. "Josh's competitive fire has led him
to a successful career in the NHL and we know he will approach this new battle
in the same manner."

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous
system. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, which means the immune
system incorrectly attacks the person's healthy tissue.

MS can cause blurred vision, loss of balance, poor coordination, slurred
speech, tremors, numbness, extreme fatigue, problems with memory and
concentration, paralysis, and blindness and more. These problems may be
permanent or may come and go.

Harding posted a record of 13-12-4 with two shutouts and a 2.62 goals-against
average in 34 games last season. He has appeared in 117 games over six seasons
with the Wild.